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- geological structure, deformation and tectonics
- strong earthquake processes and earthquake resistant construction design
- engineering and geotechnical properties of rocks
- geological hazards and services
- Antarctic geological structure and tectonics
New Zealand's volcanoes are world-beaters. The central North Island cone volcanoes are among the most frequently active in the world; and Taupo and Okataina are the most productive and frequently active caldera volcanoes on the planet. In New Zealand's recorded history, erupting volcanoes have claimed more lives than any other form of natural disaster. The GNS Science Volcanoes section maintains permanent surveillance at New Zealand's active and potentially active volcanoes to detect early signs of heightened activity. GNS Science world class research into volcano products and processes is matched by high level activity in risk analysis, emergency preparedness and public education.
Eruption scenarios …
New Zealand's biggest city, Auckland, sits on an active volcanic field that could produce a new volcano at ay time. GNS Science scientists have been working with the Auckland regional Council to better understand the filed and the hazards posed by an eruption.
GNS Science has developed five realistic eruption scenarios to illustrate what could happen to Auckland's population, infrastructure, and environment. The scenarios include an eruption forming an offshore island, one in the Tamaki Estuary, and three within two kilometres of the central business district. Each case is expected to result in the evacuation of 100,000 to 150,000 people and major disruption to commerce and services.
A quantitative GIS risk assessment of each scenario has revealed the extent of the economic impact on the Auckland community. The study noted the importance of building relationships among a range of organisations and community agencies representing at risk groups. The study has also paved the way for education and awareness programmes.
Each year GNS Science records between 10,000 and 15,000 earthquakes in and around New Zealand. Each year the country experiences between 150 and 200 earthquakes that are big enough to be felt. The GNS Science Earthquakes section specialises in quantifying earthquake hazards and designing ways and means of coping with earthquakes. GNS Science continuously monitors earthquake activity throughout New Zealand and has the most up-to-date and comprehensive data available. This information is used to help produce building codes and develop construction methods.
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above left: White Island in the Bay of Plenty is one of several active volcanic areas monitored by GNS.
above middle: The seismic monitoring station at Wairakei.
above right: The recently developed subsurface earthquake monitor.
Probing earthquakes …
GNS Science earthquake specialists have developed a subsurface earthquake sensor that will make it easier and much less expensive to determine the effect that different soils have on amplification of earthquake shaking. A new device represents a major advance in measuring the impact of ground shaking on different soil types.
A hollow stainless steel probe is mechanically driven into the ground to the required depth. Pushrods retract, leaving just a cable running to the surface. Inside the probe are three microchip accelerometers, each about the size of a thumbnail. These microchips sense ground movement in three planes.
The advantage over conventional technology is the comparatively low cost and ease of installation. Prototypes have been operating in Wellington for over a year and have provided useful data.
Rights to manufacture the probe have been bought by a North American company that is a world leader in making and marketing seismic technology. Orders have been placed even before the probes are commercially available.
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